'Rajesh Khanna's charisma gave memorable celluloid moments to film lovers': Anand Sharma

New Delhi, July 18 (ANI): Union Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma on Wednesday expressed deep sorrow on hearing of Bollywood actor Rajesh Khanna's demise, and said the superstar's charisma and acting prowess gave many memorable celluloid moments to generations of film lovers the world over.

In his condolence message, Sharma said Rajesh Khanna had a deep humanistic core and was committed to many social causes.

"His absence will be deeply felt on both cultural and social landscape of the country," he added.

The first superstar of Bollywood, Rajesh Khanna, passed away after a prolonged illness earlier today. He was 69.

The actor, who enjoyed unprecedented adulation from his fans across the country, was rushed to Lilavati Hospital twice in the past one month due to exhaustion and weakness.

Khanna's health started deteriorating since April this year when he stopped taking food and complained of exhaustion and weakness.

Khanna, who married actress Dimple Kapadia in 1973, has two daughters Twinkle and Rinki. Twinkle, an interior decorator and a former film actress, is married to actor Akshay Kumar. (ANI)